Irish & Scottish Bands

Claddagh

Dan Ryans Trio is a refreshing Irish Trio that specializes in playing folk music with an Irish flair.

Profile

Claddagh is an Irish and folk-music style band that takes its name from the famous Claddagh ring, worn by people for over 400 years as a sign of friendship, loyalty, and love.

The band members try to incorporate these virtues into their songs, but the main intent is to bring fun and good spirits to their audiences.

The five musicians of Claddagh have been close friends for many years, which lends to an easy going-style and relaxed stage presence, making the audience feel right at home. The material is lively, non-political, suited for all ages, and often involves audience participation and good old-fashioned sing-alongs, so join in if you feel like it.

The Members of Claddagh:

DAN RYAN – guitar, vocals
Dan has made music his profession for 30 years as a performer (solo, duo with Jim Greene, and with Claddagh), and as an instructor of voice, guitar, and keyboard. Dan functions as our band`s manager, and teaches music for LAUSD at the high school level.

JIM GREENE – bass guitar, guitar, vocals
Jim comes from a musical family, having sung with the Roger Wagner Chorale for a number of years. He makes his living in the entertainment industry as a technician, so he knows his way around bright lights and big cables! He performed as duo with Dan Ryan for many years in the `70s, and we are fortunate to have his rich voice and bass guitar with Claddagh.

THOM NOLAN – bodhran (Irish drum), rhythm, vocals
Thom as an avid collector of Irish songbooks, and has traveled twice to Ireland to soak up the culture (and perhaps a wee drop of `the old sod!`). He performs as our lead vocalists and song historian, and collects rhythm instruments.

STAN SMITH – banjo, fiddle, vocals
Stan is the designated banjo and fiddle player in our group, and is quite capable on a number of musical instruments. He is very involved in bluegrass music (he’s the leader of a contra dance band called `One Night Stan`), and has brought a wealth of musical knowledge to Claddagh. Stan also teaches private lessons in guitar, banjo, hammered dulcimer, and fiddle.

GEORGE REESESE – mandolin, tin whistles, vocals
George`s quick wit and theatrical background help make Claddagh`s performances lively and fun. He collects folk wind instruments as one of his hobbies and has honed his skill on the tin whistle to enhance Claddagh`s authentic Irish sound.

Claddagh has appeared on television and radio, and their original tune, `The Metrorail`, was a hit on The Dr. Demento syndicated radio show and on KMDY Comedy Radio. We are equally at home with and audience of a thousand or and audience of one. We can also dress for most any costume event. Book Claddagh now. Your audience will love you for it!